The purpose of the HCS is to ensure that employers and employees have ready access to information regarding the hazards of chemicals used in their workplaces. The HCS only applies to hazardous chemicals. The rule is a "performance oriented" standard that gives employers the flexibility to adapt the rule to the needs of the workplace situation, instead of having to follow specific, rigid requirements.

For each hazardouschemical in the workplace, your constituent is required by the HCS (29 CFR 1910.1200(g)) to maintain a copy of the MSDS. As stated above, the rule is performance oriented, establishing what information must be included on the document, but not the specific format in which it must be presented. The MSDS contains valuable information on the hazards of a product, particularly regarding safe handling, clean-up, and first aid procedures.

Teach your employees about MSDS's with posters and pamphlets from Safety Emporium.

Evidence presented during our rulemaking proceeding indicates that availability of hazard information benefits both employers and employees. Employers are required to provide a safe and healthful workplace for employees, and will be able to do a better job when they have information about the potential hazards. Employees will be better able to take steps to protect themselves when they know what the hazards are and how to avoid exposure. The result will be a reduction in chemicallly-related occupational illness and injuries.

Entry last updated: Saturday, June 11, 2016. This hypermarked and content-enhanced page is copyright 2001-2016 by ILPI, all rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication or posting on other web sites is expressly prohibited. For questions, comments and concerns, please contact us at our MSDS email address.